Edward Watkins' Obituary
Edward Oneal Watkins, 93, of Chattanooga, passed away Wednesday, August 20, 2025, at his daughter’s residence. He worked as a farmer in his early age. Edward married and decided to make a better living for his family by moving to Chattanooga, Tennessee. He started a career with Mueller Company and after 39 years, retired. Edward was a member of New Enon Baptist Church and served on the Usher Board. He worked on cars and loved building things around the house. He did not use a pattern, he would just “eye ball” it, then build it. He also loved helping others if he could.
Edward was preceded in death by his wife, Lillian Watkins; sons, Thomas Watkins, James Watkins, and Cecil Watkins; father, Robert Watkins; mother, Alberta Watkins; stepmother, Nazel Watkins; brothers, Richard Watkins, Willie Watkins, and Leo Watkins; sister, Dorothy Watkins Ballard; and sister-in-law, Dorothy Mae Watkins.
Edward is survived by his daughter, Dora (Paul) Knight of Chattanooga; brothers, Hayward Watkins of Chattanooga, Benford (Romona) Watkins of Elyria, OH, and Ben Thomas (Emma Sue) Watkins; stepsisters, Vernita Haney of Rogersville, AL, Ellen Ruth Fuqua of Buffalo, NY, and Lulu Watkins of Florence, AL; special granddaughter, Tameka Guy; great-granddaughter, Alexus Russell; and a host of grandchildren; other relatives and friends.
Edward will lie-in-state on Friday, August 29, 2025, at 9 a.m. at Taylor Funeral Home. Funeral service will follow at 3:00 p.m. in the Chapel with Pastor Andrew Bullard, III as the Eulogist. Burial will be Saturday, August 30, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. (CST) in Little Zion Baptist Church Cemetery, 955 County Road 610, Rogersville, Alabama 35652.
What’s your fondest memory of Edward?
What’s a lesson you learned from Edward?
Share a story where Edward's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Edward you’ll never forget.
How did Edward make you smile?